Comments (3)

First you should read all over the FAQ at the forums at www.bigscreenbiz.com as that will give you information on theater operation/costs. Then go visit www.mcmenamin.com which is the Pacific Northwest’s most successful (and well-liked) “brew-pub” and dinner/movie operator.

Do you have a property in mind for the business? If so, what equipment is in there already? The operational cost is dependent on so many factors, it would be helpful if you could provide more information.
For example, are you planning a storefront renovation? Does the building have a screen and projection booth, or do you plan on adding it in? What sort of volume of business does the existing location generate? Is the primary project to be a restaurant, or is it a theatre?

I’ve recently been going through this same thing. The folks and boards at bigscreenbiz have been invaluable. I’ve found that it is best to search the past postings, there is way more information than you would ever believe. Plus, it keeps people from getting irked when you ask the same thing that several hundred (thousand?) have asked. But, that said, if you can’t find any answer to a specific question, they are more than happy to help.

I’ve got a contract on my theater and am waiting to hear back from the bank!